Evolving listening behavior

07 March 2023

The way Belgians listen to audio is rapidly evolving. Thanks to the Audio Observer study, we can compare listening habits between 2017 and 2021.

In 2017, on an average day, Belgians listened to 181 minutes of Radio FM and DAB+, and 29 minutes of radio on TV, via website or app. We have to complete this with 3 minutes of podcasts, 31 minutes of streaming, and 16 minutes of their own music.

In 2021, they listened to 167 minutes of Radio FM and DAB+, and 64 minutes of radio on TV, via website or app. In addition: 23 minutes of podcasts, 51 minutes of streaming, and 25 minutes of their own music.

The most notable change is that live radio still dominates audio consumption in Belgium, accounting for 70% of listening time in 2021, compared to 81% in 2017. In absolute numbers, live radio has even increased, with an average of 231 minutes of live radio listening in 2021 compared to 210 minutes in 2017. In addition, podcasts are experiencing strong growth, and streaming is becoming increasingly popular. In 2021, on an average day, Belgians listened to media for a total of 329 minutes, compared to 259 minutes in 2017.

Despite the rise of digital audio, traditional radio remains a significant part of Belgians’ daily routine.